Universal Extends Theatrical Exclusivity to Boost Theater Runs

Universal Pictures will extend its exclusive theatrical window to five weekends immediately and to seven weekends starting in January,lengthening the time films stay in theaters and signaling a push to bolster ticket sales; Focus Features will continue with a three-week window. The move is part of Universal’s broader, evolving window strategy amid a shifting distribution landscape that includes streaming and premium VOD, with exhibitors like AMC praising the change as beneficial to the theatrical ecosystem.